Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Cooked rice: The base of the dish, providing a hearty and filling component.

Mixed vegetables: A colorful mix of carrots, peas, and corn adds nutrition and texture.

Tofu: A plant-based protein that absorbs the flavors of the dish.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor to the rice.

Sesame oil: Provides a rich, nutty aroma and taste.

Garlic: Adds a pungent, savory flavor.

Ginger: Contributes a warm, spicy note.

Green onions: Used as a fresh garnish to enhance the dish.

When preparing tofu for this recipe, press it beforehand to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a crispier texture when cooking. To do this, place the tofu between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel, and set a heavy object on top for about 15-20 minutes. This step ensures the tofu absorbs more flavor and browns nicely in the pan.

• Chicken - Substitute with tofu: Tofu is a great plant-based protein that absorbs flavors well, making it a perfect substitute for chicken in fried rice.

• Egg - Substitute with chickpea flour scramble: Chickpea flour mixed with water and spices can create a scramble that mimics the texture and protein content of eggs.

• Oyster sauce - Substitute with mushroom sauce: Mushroom sauce provides a similar umami flavor without using any animal products.

• Fish sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce offers a salty and savory flavor that can replace fish sauce in vegan recipes.

• Chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth provides a similar depth of flavor without using animal products.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a splash of sesame oil or vegetable oil to the pan.
  3. Once the oil is hot, add the leftover Chinese Chicken Fried Rice.
  4. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.
  5. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the rice is thoroughly heated and slightly crispy.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the leftover fried rice in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Add a tablespoon of water or vegetable broth to keep the rice moist.
  3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
  4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, then stir the rice.
  5. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the rice is heated through.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spread the leftover fried rice evenly in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the rice is hot.

• Steamer Method:

  1. Place the leftover fried rice in a heatproof bowl.
  2. Set up a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water.
  3. Place the bowl in the steamer basket.
  4. Cover and steam for about 5-10 minutes, until the rice is heated through.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spread the leftover fried rice in an even layer in the air fryer basket.
  3. Air fry for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the rice is hot and slightly crispy.

• Pan: A large, flat-bottomed pan is essential for evenly cooking the rice, vegetables, and tofu.

• Spatula: A spatula is necessary for stirring and flipping the ingredients to ensure they cook evenly without sticking.

• Knife: A sharp knife is needed for mincing the garlic and ginger, as well as chopping the green onions.

• Cutting board: A cutting board provides a safe and stable surface for chopping and mincing ingredients.

• Measuring cups: Measuring cups are used to accurately measure the rice, vegetables, and tofu.

• Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to measure the soy sauce and sesame oil precisely.

• Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl can be used to hold the mixed vegetables before adding them to the pan.

• Garlic press: A garlic press can be used to mince the garlic quickly and efficiently.

• Grater: A small grater can be used to mince the ginger finely.

• Serving spoon: A serving spoon is useful for transferring the finished fried rice to plates or bowls.

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop garlic, ginger, and green onions in advance to save time during cooking.

Use pre-cooked rice: Utilize leftover or store-bought cooked rice to cut down on preparation time.

Frozen vegetables: Opt for frozen mixed vegetables to eliminate the need for washing and chopping.

Marinate tofu: Marinate tofu beforehand to enhance flavor and reduce cooking time.

One-pan cooking: Use a large pan to cook everything together, minimizing cleanup time.